Vinograd v. Travelers Protective Ass'n of America

The action is brought by the beneficiary named in a certificate of membership in the defendant association to recover $5,000 for the death of the member through accident. The defendant is incorporated and duly licensed under the laws of Missouri as a fraternal beneficiary association. The association has a “lodge system with ritualistic form of work.” The face of the certificate recites that the assured is entitled to such benefits as may be provided in and by the constitution and by-laws of the association in force at the time the accident occurs upon which the claim is based; that the…